Will Insurance Pay for New Roof Decking? Everything You Need to Know

If you're a homeowner, you understand the importance of having a sturdy and reliable roof over your head. However, unexpected events like storms, hail, or other natural disasters can cause severe damage to your roof, including the decking. When this happens, you may be wondering if your insurance will cover the cost of replacing the roof decking. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about roof decking and insurance, so you can be prepared in the event that something happens.

What is Roof Decking?

Before we dive into the details of insurance coverage, let's start by understanding what roof decking is. Roof decking, also known as sheathing, is the layer of material that is attached to the roof trusses or rafters. It provides a solid base for the roofing materials, such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels. The most common types of roof decking materials include plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), and composite boards.

Is Roof Decking Covered By Insurance?

The coverage for roof decking depends on your insurance policy and the specific circumstances of the damage. In general, most homeowners insurance policies cover roof damage caused by covered perils, such as storms, hail, wind, or fire. However, the extent of the coverage may vary.

Some insurance policies may cover the cost of replacing the damaged roof decking as part of the overall roof replacement. This means that if your insurance company approves the claim for a new roof, they will likely include the cost of new roof decking in their estimate.

However, it's important to note that not all insurance policies cover roof decking replacement. Some policies may consider roof decking as a separate component and exclude it from coverage. In this case, you may need to pay for the replacement out of pocket or explore other options, such as financing or assistance programs.

Code Upgrade Coverage

When it comes to roof decking replacement, another important factor to consider is code upgrade coverage. Building codes and regulations can change over time, and if your roof decking doesn't meet the current code requirements, you may be required to upgrade it during the roof replacement process.

Some insurance policies include code upgrade coverage, which means they will cover the additional cost of bringing your roof decking up to code. However, this coverage is not always included by default, and you may need to add it to your policy or purchase it as an additional endorsement.

When Should You Consider Building Codes Coverage?

Building codes coverage can be beneficial in several situations. Here are some scenarios where you should consider adding this coverage:

• If your home is older and the roof decking may not meet the current building codes
• If you live in an area prone to frequent code updates or stricter regulations
• If you want to ensure that your roof replacement is compliant with the latest building standards

By adding building codes coverage to your insurance policy, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof decking will be brought up to code if necessary, without incurring additional out-of-pocket expenses.

Conclusion

Roof decking is an essential component of your roof, and its replacement may be necessary in certain situations. Whether insurance will cover the cost of new roof decking depends on your policy, the specific circumstances of the damage, and the inclusion of code upgrade coverage. It's crucial to review your insurance policy carefully and consult with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage.

In the event of roof damage, it's always recommended to document the damage with photos or videos and file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. An adjuster will assess the damage and provide an estimate for the necessary repairs or replacement. Be sure to communicate any concerns or questions about roof decking coverage during the claims process.

Remember, insurance policies and coverage can vary, so it's essential to review your specific policy and consult with your insurance provider to get accurate information about your coverage for roof decking replacement.